Épernay Festival of Lights 2025: Champagne, Lights & Celebration

Rüdiger Gottschalk
Oct 21
2 min read

Updated: 1 day ago

A Sparkling Tradition in the Heart of Champagne

It is the quintessential light festival of the Champagne region. Every December, Épernay comes alive with dance, champagne, and dazzling light displays. The Festival of Lights, or Fête des Lumières, transforms the city into a glowing celebration of art and joy, creating an enchanting atmosphere that attracts visitors from near and far.

Held during the second weekend of December, this year’s edition once again turns Épernay into a vibrant stage of lights and festivities, illuminating the Christmas season with elegance and charm.

Celebrating Light, Champagne & Culture

The Festival of Lights was established to celebrate the festive season and bring the city to life through fascinating installations and artistic performances. Famous for its exquisite champagnes, Épernay uses the festival to highlight its local culture and the art of winemaking.

Located about 130 kilometers from Paris, Épernay has a population of just 22,000 residents. Yet during the festival, thousands of visitors fill its beautifully decorated streets, admiring the illuminated façades and exploring the world-famous Avenue de Champagne.

Among the most renowned champagne houses are:

Moët & Chandon – one of the largest champagne producers in the world
Veuve Clicquot – known for its iconic yellow label
Perrier-Jouët – celebrated for its floral Art Nouveau bottles
Taittinger, Billecart-Salmon, Laurent-Perrier, and Champagne Collet – offering guided cellar tours, tastings, and insights into centuries of champagne craftsmanship

Festive Highlights & Culinary Delights

During the weekend, visitors can:

Stroll through festively decorated streets
Admire light installations and projection art
Enjoy champagne tastings in historic cellars
Visit Christmas markets featuring handmade crafts, local specialties, and regional delicacies
Experience a vibrant program of concerts, theater performances, and cultural events celebrating Champagne’s heritage